2014-2015

Student Life Handbook

High School

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Campus Phone Numbers

High School Office: Sheri Zagata (803) 807-4141

School Receptionist: Tracey Ramos (803) 807-4000

Other Important Numbers

Admissions – Day Students: Kelly Adams (803) 807-4110

Admissions – Boarding Students: Debbie Austin (803) 807-4145

Athletics: Christy Lambert (803) 807-4197

Attendance: Deans of Students (803) 807-4132

Boarding Program Director: Eric Needham (803) 807-4113

Campus Wear: Sally Settle (803) 807-4106

College Planning and Placement: Terry Stoker (803) 807-4108

Discipline Deans of Students (803) 807-4132

Events: Kelly Davis (803) 807-4144

FACTS and Tuition Payments: Susan Carpenter (803) 807-4129

Financial Aid: Sheri Burchill (803) 807-4103

Fundraising: Bonnie Spacek (803) 807-4114

Guidance: Linda Dixon (803) 807-4119

Health Services: Michelle Harris (803) 807-4126

Lost and Found: Contact School Office (803) 807-4000

Marketing and Communications: Kyndra Bremer (803) 807-5510

RenWeb: Contact School Office (803) 807-4000

Office Hours

8 a.m. – 4 p.m.

School Hours

Monday: 9:10 a.m. – 3:15 p.m.

Tuesday – Friday: 8:10 a.m. – 3:15 p.m.

Ben Lippen has late start for all students every Monday. School begins one hour later and ends

at the regular time. This allows the faculty and staff time for professional development.

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Table of Contents

Mission Statements 4

Introduction 5

Primary Expectations of a Ben Lippen Student 6

Spiritual Life Expectations 7

Discipline and Conduct 7

Interpersonal Relationships 11

Social Events 13

Media Standards 13

Attendance 14

Testing and Examinations 16

Cheating and Plagiarism 17

Technology Policy 17

Campus Wear 20

Lunch 24

Care of Property 25

Lockers 25

Library 26

Safety Considerations 26

Security 26

Health Requirements and Services 26

Vehicles and Road Safety 27

Parking 28

CIU Campus 28

Graduation Requirements 29

Guidance Services 39

Conferences and Addressing Problems 41

Visitors and Guests 41

Volunteers 42

School Closing 42

School Records 42

Withdrawal Procedures 42

Supplementary Education Program 43

Financial Policies and Procedures 43

High School Handbook Commitment Form 46

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Ben Lippen School Mission Statement

Ben Lippen School seeks to glorify God by assisting the family and church in equipping students

spiritually, academically, and socially under the Lordship of Jesus Christ.

Ben Lippen High School Mission Statement

Within a culturally diverse learning community, Ben Lippen High School prepares young adults

to be stewards of the gifts God has given them in preparation for the calling of God in their lives

by training them as independent Christian scholars who seek God, love all people, demonstrate

a zeal for learning, think analytically, and communicate effectively.

Notice of Nondiscriminatory Policy

Ben Lippen School admits students of any race, color, sex, national and ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges,

programs and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school. It does not discriminate on

the basis of race, color, sex, national and ethnic origin in administration of its educational policies, admissions

policies, scholarship program, athletic or other school-administered programs.

Lifestyle Statement

Ben Lippen School is a religious institution providing an education in a distinct Christian environment, and it believes

that its biblical role is to work in conjunction with the home to mold students to be Christ-like. On those occasions in

which the atmosphere or conduct within a particular home is counter to or in opposition to the biblical lifestyle the

school teaches, the school reserves the right, within it sole discretion, to refuse admission of an applicant or to

discontinue enrollment of a student. This includes, but is not necessarily limited to, living in, condoning, or supporting

sexual immorality; homosexual acts or sexual orientation; promoting such practices; or otherwise the inability to

support the moral principles of the school (Leviticus 20:13a, Romans 1:27, Matthew 19:4-6).

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Introduction

I am grateful that you have chosen to join with Ben Lippen School in your educational

endeavors, and I hope that your time partnered with Ben Lippen School is full of memorable

experiences and strong relationships that shape the rest of your life. I desire that students grow

in a relationship with the living God through the Lord Jesus during their time at Ben Lippen, and

that they ultimately choose to follow Him for the rest of their lives, wherever He may lead them.

Guidelines - such as you will find outlined throughout this handbook - that encourage student

responsibility in order to maintain an atmosphere of cooperation, mutual respect, personal

integrity, spiritual growth, and learning are necessary at Ben Lippen School. Such guidelines are

not intended to confine or restrict students; rather, appropriate boundaries allow students

freedom to develop fully. Tremendous personal growth is possible during a student’s time at

Ben Lippen, and the guidelines in this handbook intend to allow such growth.

I hope that your individual experience with Ben Lippen School is as positive as the experience I

envision and desire for each one of my students.

Looking forward to serving you,

L. Emery Nickerson II, M.Ed.

High School Principal

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Primary Expectations of a BLS Student

Ben Lippen students RESPECT others, authority, self, and property. Ben Lippen students are

open to differences in others (cultural, age, gender, religion, etc.) and purpose to interact with all

types of people while taking care to communicate respectfully (Philippians 2:3).

Ben Lippen students demonstrate personal RESPONSIBILITY for their own behavior and

learning, as well as exercising self control over their actions and words. Ben Lippen students

voluntarily follow Ben Lippen rules, willingly devote themselves to learning, and fulfill their

responsibilities without being asked or reminded regardless of whether they will be held

accountable for their actions. Ben Lippen students respond to both correction and consequence

with a repentant attitude when correction is necessary (Titus 2:12; 2 Timothy 1:7).

Ben Lippen students demonstrate personal INTEGRITY by pursuing a wholeness of character,

action, and thought, filtering personal choices through the lens of what is morally and justly right

in God’s eyes. Ben Lippen students do not lie, cheat, or steal, and they show moral integrity in

their relationships with others including matters of sexual purity and propriety (Proverbs 22:1).

Ben Lippen students practice good STEWARDSHIP and are responsible to oversee, preserve,

protect, and use wisely all resources God has provided them: God’s creation, the Ben Lippen

campus and community, their physical bodies, their finances, and their relationships with others

(Colossians 3:23-24).

Ben Lippen students show COMPASSION and care in their relationships with others. They are

sympathetic and empathetic in their response to the needs of others. Ben Lippen students treat

others as they wish to be treated and consider the needs of others before they consider their

own (Ephesians 4:32; 1 Thessalonians 5:11-14).

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Spiritual Life Expectations

Ben Lippen School (BLS) does not replace the role the local church plays in the life of its

students and families. Instead, BLS hopes to come alongside its students and support their

spiritual development. For that reason, we maintain the following expectations:

Quiet Time

Developing the habit of meeting with God each day in Bible reading, meditation, and prayer can

be the most important thing one learns while at BLS (Psalm 1:2; James 4:8; Mark 1:35).

Church Attendance and the Sabbath Day

Regular attendance at a local church is expected of all BLS students. Participation in other

activities of the church is highly encouraged (Hebrews 10:25). Additionally, while BLS is a busy,

hard-working community throughout the work week, it seeks to make the Sabbath day a special

day in which we spend more time in quiet rest, worship, and service for our Lord (Genesis 2:2-3;

Exodus 20:8-11; Mark 2:27-28).

Chapel Attendance

Chapel is generally held once a week and is required for all students.

Discipline and Conduct

Obedience to BLS rules and respectful compliance to the direction of BLS faculty, staff, and

administration is expected at all times. BLS students are expected to exhibit behavior that is

supportive of scriptural guidelines and the school’s mission and policies. Consequences levied

for not exhibiting such behavior are meant to be formative, not punitive, in nature. Students may

be held accountable for behavior both on and off campus, including when school is not in

session. The BLS administration retains at their sole discretion the prerogative to assign specific

consequences up to and including suspension/expulsion.

Possible Infractions May Include:

1. Class disruption

2. Excessive tardiness to, sleeping in, or skipping of class, chapel, advisor groups, or

domestics

3. Using electronics, including the school-issued iPad, when not permitted

4. Disobedience, disrespect, and/or insubordination

5. Lying

6. Cheating/Plagiarism

7. Stealing

8. Destruction or misuse of school property or another student’s property

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9. Fighting

10. Harassment or Bullying

11. Inappropriate language or behavior (e.g. foul, disrespectful, abusive, or crude language

and/or gestures) - including on social media

12. Not speaking English during school hours (excluding foreign language coursework)

13. Dress code violation

14. On-campus driving and/or parking violation

15. Leaving campus without proper permission

16. Possession or use of weapons on campus

17. Possession or use of alcohol, tobacco products, or other drugs

18. Possession or use of pornographic material

19. Inappropriately touching another person

20. Sexual impropriety, immorality, and/or harassment

Additionally, being a party to another’s wrongdoing is just as serious as actually committing the

offense. Actions such as hiding something for someone, concealing the truth to protect another

person, giving or selling illegal or unacceptable items to someone, and/or enticing others to act

contrary to the rules or expectations of Ben Lippen School are subject to disciplinary action.

Disciplinary Procedures

BLS is systematic in its approach to discipline. The steps outlined below are typical when responding to a situation where a student fails to follow the primary expectations of a BLS student: respect, responsibility, integrity, stewardship, and/or compassion. However, the administration reserves the right to elevate the level of response to a specific disciplinary situation up to and including suspension and expulsion at their sole discretion. Additionally, certain offenses (e.g. cell phones in class, cheating/plagiarism, campus wear violations) have separate and specific response guidelines outlined elsewhere in this handbook.

Step 1: BLS faculty or staff will address incorrect student behavior by, at a minimum,

conversing with the student regarding primary expectations and/or school policy.

The BLS faculty or staff member will record the offense and response in

RenWeb.

Step 2: BLS faculty or staff will address incorrect student behavior by, at a minimum,

conversing with the student regarding primary expectations and/or school policy

and contacting parents via email. The teacher will then record the offense and

response in RenWeb. The BLS faculty or staff member may additionally choose

any of the following courses of action:

A parent-teacher conference

A 30 minute student-teacher conference before or after school

Other appropriate consequences at teacher discretion

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Step 3: BLS faculty or staff will refer incorrect student behavior to administration after

notifying the student and parents of the referral. Following a meeting with

administration, any of the following courses of action may be taken:

A parent-teacher conference with administrative presence

Lunch detention(s) served with the Dean on duty

A 3-hour Saturday Work Detail, including a $30 fine

Suspension from participation in all or specific athletic and/or co-curricular

activities for a designated period of time

In-school suspension

Out-of-school suspension

Behavioral contract between student, parent(s), and BLS

Other appropriate consequences at administrative discretion

Step 4: Repeated offenses in one general category are considered serious violations of

school policy illustrating a student’s inability or unwillingness to follow BLS rules

and respond to correction. Such repeated offenses are major disciplinary

offenses and often result in suspension, expulsion, or other serious

consequences.

Saturday Work Detail

Students assigned to a Saturday Work Detail will meet from 9 a.m. to 12 noon. Manual labor

and/or academic work will be assigned. Students who are assigned Saturday Work Detail will be

charged $30 to defray the cost of supervision. If a student fails to show up for a Saturday Work

Detail then the student will serve an in-school suspension the following Wednesday and will pay

a fine of $50. If the student fails to show up for in-school suspension, he/she will not be allowed

to return to school until the in-school suspension has been served.

In-School and Out-of-School Suspension

If an in-school suspension (ISS) is assessed, manual labor and/or academic work will be

assigned in the morning and the student will serve in the cafeteria during lunch (serving food,

wiping tables and/or dish pit). After lunch, the student will be required to write an essay

reflecting on the circumstances warranting suspension and a plan to avoid a recurrence in the

future. This essay will then be discussed with the administration. A student serving an ISS will

not be allowed to participate in co-curricular activities (e.g. events, games, meetings, or

practices) on the same day. Students serving an ISS will be allowed to make up tests and

quizzes for full credit, but will receive zeros on classwork and homework missed during the ISS.

If an out-of-school suspension is assessed, the student will be required to write an essay

reflecting on the circumstances warranting suspension and a plan to avoid a recurrence in the

future. This essay must be discussed with the administration prior to a student’s return to

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school. A student serving an out-of-school suspension will not be allowed to participate in co-

curricular activities (e.g. events, games, meetings, or practices) on the same day.

Students serving an out of school suspension will be allowed to make up tests and quizzes for

full credit, but will receive zeros on classwork and homework missed during the out of school

suspension.

Expulsion

A student who has demonstrated an unwillingness to cooperate with the school through habitual

disobedience and insubordination by maintaining an unrepentant, negative attitude or through

any single major disciplinary offense, may be dismissed from Ben Lippen School.

Immediate out-of-school suspension and possible expulsion may be expected from the following

offenses:

Possession of knives, firearms, or any other weapons on campus, or at any school

function

Possession or use of alcohol, illegal drugs, and/or abuse of prescription or nonprescription

drugs on or off campus

Any misdemeanor or felony on or off campus

Sexual immorality on or off campus

Communicating a threat to another person or the BLS community

The administration may, at its own prerogative, choose to allow a student to withdraw in lieu of

expulsion if circumstances warrant.

A student who has been expelled may apply to return to BLS after one full semester. Evidence

of changed behavior and positive references will be considered in a re-application, but there is

no guarantee of re-admission.

A student who has been expelled from BLS may not return to the Ben Lippen campus for any

reason, except the following:

1. If accompanied by his or her parent(s) or guardian(s) to apply for re-admittance.

2. If accompanied by opposing coaching staff to compete in an athletic contest on the BLS

campus, if expelled student is a member of an opposing team.

Students who have been expelled from Ben Lippen may not attend Ben Lippen sponsored

events or athletic contests on the Ben Lippen campus as spectators. An expelled student may

appeal to the administration in writing at least one week in advance for an exception to this

policy, if the student believes circumstances warrant. Exceptions to this policy are at the sole

discretion of Ben Lippen administration.

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Disciplinary Appeals

A student may appeal any disciplinary action after the student has spoken directly with the

faculty member or administrator who assigned the consequence (in keeping with Matthew 18).

This gives the student an opportunity to explain the circumstances and listen to the faculty

member’s response. If the student still wishes to appeal, an appeal can be submitted to the

principal. Suspensions may be appealed to the headmaster. Expulsions may be appealed to the

headmaster and a committee of the board of directors.

Student Privacy

While BLS will make every effort to preserve student dignity and protect general student privacy,

students cannot expect absolute privacy. BLS reserves the right to search student lockers and

student personal belongings/possessions (e.g. clothing, bag, vehicle, digital files, electronic

devices, etc.) if there is reason to suspect contraband, inappropriate materials, and/or any

materials, substances, or information that could pose a safety risk to students or that may be

illegal to possess. Every effort will be made to have the student present during any search, and

at least two BLS employees will be present during a formal search.

Drug Testing

Ben Lippen reserves the right to randomly drug test any student at any time.

Repentance and Reconciliation

When a student voluntarily chooses to come forward and confess to a BLS faculty or staff

member his/her involvement in a misdemeanor or felony on or off campus, sexual immorality, or

use of alcohol or drugs, the opportunity for reconciliation may be available. Consequences

(such as suspension, drug testing, counseling, and other measures of accountability sometimes

including expulsion) can be expected with offenses of this nature, but students who have

confessed and repented may be allowed to continue their enrollment at BLS if fruits of

repentance are evident. Whether a student will be allowed to continue at BLS, be required to

withdraw from BLS for a predetermined length of time (e.g. one full semester), or be expelled

from BLS will be based on an evaluation by the administration taking into account both the

individual(s) and the school as a whole.

Interpersonal Relationships

BLS desires that every student learn to develop healthy relationships. Public displays of

affection (including handholding, inappropriate hugging, kissing, etc.) are not acceptable (II

Timothy 2:22). This expectation is applicable on campus and at all BLS activities. Additionally,

students should exercise proper postures and positions while in the presence of others to

maintain modesty.

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Social Restriction

Students who demonstrate difficulty in maintaining appropriate boundaries in their relationships

may be placed on social restriction. Such restriction prohibits all social interaction between the

persons involved while on campus or attending BLS activities.

Married Students and Pregnancy Policy

Married students may not attend BLS for their secondary education. Also, any student who is

pregnant or a student with a child may not be enrolled at BLS. If a student becomes pregnant or

causes a pregnancy while attending BLS, he/she will be asked to withdraw.

Sexual Immorality

While enrolled at BLS, all students are expected to exhibit purity in their relationships. BLS

retains the right to refuse enrollment or expel any student who engages in sexual immorality (I

Corinthians 6:18), including any student who is a professing or practicing homosexual, bisexual,

or transgendered person, as well as any student who supports or otherwise promotes such

practices (Leviticus 20:13; Romans 1:27).

Harassment and Bullying Policy

BLS protects the right of every student to have an environment that respects human dignity.

Harassment of students is contrary to Scripture, morally wrong, and illegal. Ben Lippen

expressly forbids sexual harassment (opposite sex or same sex) or any threatening and

offensive conduct or expressions with respect to gender, race, color, national origin, disability, or

age.

Harassment can include a pattern of remarks, gestures, jokes, physical contact, teasing,

excessive attention, bullying, picture(s), or written material that a person finds personally

threatening, derogatory, offensive, or unwanted. Sometimes individuals responsible for these

actions may not know that they are offensive. Students feeling harassed should tell the person

harassing that he/she is being offensive as well as notify a teacher or administrator.

Bullying is “unwanted, aggressive behavior among school aged children that involves a real or

perceived power imbalance. The behavior is repeated, or has the potential to be repeated, over

time.” Bullies “use their power - such as physical strength, access to embarrassing information,

or popularity - to control or harm others. Power imbalances can change over time and in

different situations, even if they involve the same people.” Bullying can be verbal, social, or

physical, and can occur on or off campus, during or after school hours, and online or in person.

“Bullying includes actions such as making threats, spreading rumors, attacking someone

physically or verbally, and excluding someone from a group on purpose,” actions that a

reasonable person would consider inappropriate. (Definition and information from

www.stopbullying.gov)

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Any student initiating or persisting in any form of harassment (including bullying) - verbal,

physical, or visual - is subject to immediate discipline by the principal.

If a student finds the environment hostile or offensive, if a student believes he/she has been

harassed or bullied by another student or individual, or if a student knows another person who

has been harassed or bullied, the student should promptly tell a teacher or administrator. All

reports will be promptly reviewed and investigated in as confidential a manner as circumstances

permit, and appropriate action will be taken. If a student is dissatisfied with the investigation or

action taken, the student should bring the matter directly to the principal.

Social Events

High School Socials

A variety of social events occur throughout the year. These events help to develop school spirit,

build lasting friendships, and promote positive relationships. Some events are more formal such

as the Christmas Social and the Junior-Senior. For formal social events, dress approvals for

female students are required. Other socials are planned for class fellowship such as the Senior

Retreat and class parties.

Junior-Senior Event

Only BLS juniors and seniors attend the formal Junior-Senior held each spring. Attendance is

required. Appropriate consequences will be assigned by the administration for non-attendance.

Dancing

Modest dancing is allowed at some school functions, such as the Junior-Senior, and is

monitored by faculty and parent chaperones. Acceptable dance styles at Ben Lippen School

functions are shag, line, swing, square, and modest group dancing. The song list for dancing at

school functions must be pre-approved by administration before the event, and deviation from

the approved song list by the DJ is not allowed (i.e. no requests outside the pre-approved song

list). The DJ must understand Ben Lippen’s Christian mission and preferences in dance and

music, and a Christian DJ is preferred for all Ben Lippen events. Explicit songs in any genre

(whether the explicit or “clean” version), or any songs that promote inappropriate dancing, are

not allowed. Inappropriate behavior at a dance will result in appropriate consequence as

determined by the administration.

Media Standards

Media that is not consistent with Christian living is not permitted on campus. Appropriateness of

any media item is determined solely by faculty and administrative discretion.

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Movie Guidelines

PG-13 and R-rated movies are not permitted on campus or at any BLS sponsored activity

unless approved by the administration. BLS students are not permitted to view movies rated

NC-17 and X.

Music Guidelines

Music with inappropriate lyrics or themes is not permitted on campus or at school events.

Attendance

Absences

It is each student’s responsibility to attend class. Students are allowed four absences per

semester in each course (eight total for a year-long course). An absence will be assessed if a

student misses more than 20 minutes of an individual class period - including classes missed for

necessary reasons such as scheduled medical appointments. If the absence limit is exceeded

for an individual course, credit may not be given unless appropriate academic remediation (as

determined by administration) is successfully completed. Academic remediation may bear

additional financial cost beyond regular tuition. The student may appeal loss of course credit

due to excessive absence to the principal’s office if there are extenuating circumstances

explaining the excessive absences.

When students are going to miss school for a planned activity, it is the student’s responsibility to

notify the teacher in advance. The teacher may require work to be completed during the

absence. If a teacher is not notified at least by the prior class meeting, any assignments will be

subject to the late work policy for that class.

Absences in AP classes after the AP exam has been given will not accumulate toward loss of

credit for the course. However, attendance in each class will still be taken, and students who are

on campus after the AP exam must attend class.

Tardiness

Students arriving after 8:10 a.m. should go directly to the office and sign in before going to their

first block class. Students arriving late to school or a block during the school day will not be

allowed into class unless they have a pass from the office. A tardy is defined as missing up to

the first 20 minutes of the class. Addtionally, one class absence will be assessed for every three

tardies accumulated in a specific class in one semester.

Leaving Campus

Students are not permitted to leave campus during school hours without permission, including

CIU’s campus and the Boarding houses. If written permission has been granted by the parent or

guardian to leave campus, the student must also sign out at the school office. Except for

designated days for senior off campus lunches, students are not allowed to leave campus in the

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middle of the day for lunch. For AP classes, this expectation continues during and after AP

exams have been given. Once a student has arrived at school, the student should stay at school

until the completion of his or her classes that day unless circumstances require his or her

leaving. Students violating this policy should expect consequences up to an ISS for the first

offense.

Skipping Class

Once a student is already on campus, intentional failure to attend class is considered skipping

class. The consequence for a student who skips class is to serve an ISS.

School-Related Absences

Students must make up work missed during absences resulting from participation in any school-

related academic, athletic, or co-curricular activity. Students must contact the teacher prior to

their absences to reschedule any missed assessments.

School-Related Absences – Athletic Participation

Students who miss school for the last half of the academic day may not practice, play sports or

attend any school functions that day without specific administrative approval.

Sickness or Medical Appointments

Parents should call or email the Dean of Students or the high school office by 9 a.m. on each

day of a student’s absence due to illness. When leaving campus during the school day for

sickness or medical appointments, specific parental permission is required. Whenever possible,

medical and dental appointments should be scheduled when school is not in session.

Makeup Work

If a student is absent from class due to illness, a one class-meeting extension on assignments

will be given for each class-meeting absent, if necessary.

An absent student is individually responsible to get the notes and/or announcements from other

students and/or ask the teacher for missed work. The student is responsible for any material

covered during the absence which may be on a future test/quiz. Additionally, the student is

responsible for all homework, class work, and long-term projects as well as for taking any

assigned quizzes or tests on time.

If a student is absent the day before a test/quiz because of an athletic event, school activity, or

college visit, the student is responsible to collect all assignments and make arrangements for

taking tests and quizzes before the scheduled absence OR to take the test/quiz on the day that

he/she returns unless prior arrangements were made with the teacher.

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Late Work

The purpose of late work penalties is to encourage faithfulness and responsibility. Each

department establishes its own late work guidelines, and each teacher documents these

guidelines in the course syllabus.

Testing and Examinations

Tests

A student scheduled to take tests (not quizzes) in three or more courses on a single day may go

to the high school office to request an extension for the test or tests assigned last (as

determined by the high school office) bringing the total for one day to tests in no more than two

subjects. Students must request this extension at least 24 hours prior to the test being delayed.

Exams

Exams are held at the end of each semester according to a published schedule. Students who

do not have a scheduled exam may be excused from school with written parental permission.

Makeup exams will be permitted for sickness, death in the family, or other circumstances

approved through the principal’s office. All rescheduled exams must be approved through the

principal’s office, and the rescheduling of exams may result in a fee. Campus wear expectations

continue through exam week.

Exam Exemption Policy

Seniors may be exempt from first semester exams with teacher approval and a 93% average or

better in the class. Seniors are exempt from second semester exams if they have earned a 93%

average or better in the class.

Juniors may be exempt from first or second semester exams with teacher approval if they have

earned a 95% average or better in the class.

Sophomores may be exempt from first or second semester exams with teacher approval if they

have earned a 97% average or better in the class.

Freshmen may be exempt from first or second semester exams with teacher approval if they

have earned a 99% average or better in the class.

If a student is exempt from an exam and chooses not to take it, the student’s semester average

will be computed by considering each quarter of the semester as fifty percent of the semester

grade.

There are no first semester exam exemptions in AP classes for either juniors or seniors. All

students enrolled in AP courses are expected to take the AP exam in May. Ben Lippen families

are responsible to pay an AP exam fee for each exam taken. This fee is set by the College

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Board, the nonprofit organization that oversees the AP exams. Specific information regarding

the exam fee can be found on the College Board’s website. The AP exam fee(s) will be billed to

the student’s FACTS account in early spring. Considering the cost per credit hour for college

courses, the fee for an AP exam by a well-prepared student is an excellent investment.

Cheating and Plagiarism

BLS does not tolerate cheating of any form. Since the root issue is one of integrity, BLS does

not distinguish in consequences between cheating on homework, classwork, formal

assessments, papers, projects, exams, etc.

Plagiarism is a form of cheating. Plagiarism, regardless of intent, is the presentation of words or

ideas of another as one’s own. For example:

The words, sentences, ideas, conclusions, examples and/or organization of an assignment

are borrowed from a source (a book, an article, another student’s paper, webpage, etc.)

without properly acknowledging the source

A student submits work done by another student, in part or whole, as his or her own work

A student submits assignments received from commercial firms or any other person or

group

A student knowingly aids another student in plagiarizing an assignment as defined above

Collaboration between students - working together on an assignment leading to a mutual and

greater understanding where all parties are actively engaged in the learning process and

approximately equal contributors - is acceptable when given permission by the classroom

teacher. Students should take care to understand and follow the expectations of their teacher

before collaborating on an assignment. Collaboration that is not approved by the teacher will be

considered cheating.

Students involved in any form of cheating will receive a referral to the administration which will

likely result in, at a minimum, a zero on the assignment and an in-school suspension. Any

student knowingly allowing or aiding another student to cheat should expect a similar

consequence.

Technology Policy

Technology is an integral part of our society and an important tool in education, the workplace,

and daily life. As such, BLS embraces and utilizes technology in order to enhance the pursuit of

the BLS mission and vision. At the same time, BLS recognizes the need to exercise caution and

restraint when technology interferes with the primary expectations of a BLS student.

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iPad Acceptable Use Policy

BLS students must sign the iPad Acceptable Use Policy committing to the statements below

before receiving their school issued iPad.

1. I understand that the iPad I have been issued is owned by Ben Lippen.

2. I will take proper care of my iPad and its accessories, and will do my best to protect them

from damage. This includes keeping the iPad in a case at all times.

3. I will bring my iPad to school with me every day, and I will charge it before I come to

school.

4. I will store my iPad in my locker during lunch or other activities.

5. I will not attempt to access websites, apps, or services that are blocked by the school or

by my parents. I will not use my iPad to access content that is graphic, sexually explicit,

or otherwise inappropriate.

6. I understand that any school employee has the right to inspect my iPad at any time.

7. I will not share account login information with any other students.

8. I will not lend my iPad or borrow someone else’s.

9. During class I will only use apps or websites that are approved by that teacher.

10. I will never take pictures or make recordings in class without the explicit permission of

the teacher.

11. I will not take pictures or video in restrooms, locker rooms, or any other private areas. I

will not post any pictures taken at school to social media sites without permission.

12. I will use my iPad to communicate only in ways that are kind and respectful. I will not

bully others online, nor will I tolerate those who do.

13. I understand that it may become necessary during the year for the school to modify or

add to this document.

14. I understand that if I choose to violate any of these statements I will be subject to

discipline as deemed appropriate by the school.

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Cell Phones

High school students may carry a cell phone during school hours. However, cell phone use is

only allowed during a student’s lunchtime hour and transition time between classes. During

class, cell phones must be silent and out of sight. Students who do not conform to this

expectation may expect the following consequences:

1st Offense: The teacher will confiscate the student’s cell phone, document the

offense in RenWeb, and give the phone to the office staff. The student

can retrieve the phone from the office after the end of the school day. If

the phone is confiscated at the end of the school day, the student must

turn in his or her cell phone to the Deans on the following day.

2nd Offense: The teacher will confiscate the student’s cell phone, document the

offense in RenWeb, give the phone to the office staff, and a $20 fine will

be assessed by the administration. The student can retrieve the phone

from the office after the end of the school day. Parents will be contacted

for a meeting, and at least until the parent meeting occurs, and possibly

longer at administrative discretion, the student will be required to turn the

cell phone in to the office when he/she arrives at school and pick it up

after the school day has finished.

3rd Offense: The teacher will confiscate the student’s cell phone, document the

offense in RenWeb, give the phone to the office staff, and a $50 fine will

be assessed by the administration. The student can retrieve the phone

from the office after the end of the school day. Consequences from step 3

in “Disciplinary Procedures” will be considered.

4th Offense: The teacher will confiscate the student’s cell phone, document the

offense in RenWeb, and give the phone to the office staff. A fourth

offense will be considered a major disciplinary offense as described in

step 4 in “Disciplinary Procedures,” and the student should expect

significant consequences.

Social Media Use

The same expectations that apply to direct, face-to-face communication also apply to digital

communication and social media. Misuse of digital communication by BLS students will be

addressed.

Personal Computing Devices

All BLS high school students are supplied with an iPad to use both at school and at home. The

school-provided iPad should be the primary computing device used by a BLS student. Laptops,

Android tablets, personal iPads, and other such devices are generally not allowed. Teachers

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may, at their own discretion, choose to allow such devices in the classroom for specific

purposes as they deem necessary.

Personal Wi-Fi Hotspots

Students may not bring mobile or portable WiFi hotspots on campus. All internet access on

campus should be through the Ben Lippen network. If a student has a smartphone with WiFi

hotspot or tethering capability, this feature may not be used on campus.

Campus Wear

The purpose of campus wear is to promote modesty, neatness and appropriateness in order to

support a positive learning environment. Campus wear can help reduce tension in the home

regarding what is and is not appropriate to wear to school, and supports school unity and

identity.

Ben Lippen requires a campus wear “top” and “bottom” for all students Monday through

Thursday, including fall and spring exam days and AP exam days.

Tops - Students must wear a polo shirt, oxford style shirt, or blouse (girls only) with the Ben

Lippen logo purchased from the Ben Lippen Lands’ End webpage. A maximum of one button

may be left unbuttoned at the neck.

Bottoms - Pants and shorts (non-cargo) may be purchased from any vendor, but must conform

to the guidelines listed below in order to maintain a tailored/traditional uniform look for campus

wear. Skirts (girls only) and cargo shorts (boys and girls) may only be purchased from the Ben

Lippen Lands’ End webpage. Shorts and skirts must reach the knee while standing up straight.

Students who cannot obtain skirts or shorts that reach the knee while standing straight may

wear pants instead. If an item of clothing has belt loops, students are expected to wear a belt.

Pants

Solid color fitting within the BL Campus Wear color palette limited to navy blue,

black, gray, or a medium to dark shade of tan khaki

Cotton or blended twill traditionally-styled chinos with a flat or pleated front

No low rise, wide flare, or skinny styles are permitted

No corduroy, spandex, or lycra permitted

No embellishments such as (but not limited to) sequins, labels, riveted pockets, or

external pockets

Denim is only acceptable on Fridays

Guys: Pants must be traditional, full-length pants

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Shorts

Solid color fitting with the BL Campus Wear color palette limited to navy blue, black,

gray, or a medium to dark shade of tan khaki

Cotton or blended twill traditionally-styled uniform shorts

No corduroy, spandex, or lycra permitted

No embellishments such as (but not limited to) sequins, labels, riveted pockets, or

external pockets (except cargo shorts purchased from the Lands’ End webpage).

Shoes

Shoes must be clean and in good repair. Beach-style or bathroom flip-flops, athletic sliders, and

slippers (including moccasin style) are not permitted.

Outerwear

An outer layer of clothing (e.g. a jacket, a sweater, etc.) may be worn in the school building so

long as the clothing meets all the guidelines outlined below. Even when wearing an outer layer

of clothing, students are required to wear a Campus Wear top underneath it.

Solid color in the BL Campus Wear color palette limited to dark green, yellow, navy blue,

gray, black, or white

No neon and/or metallic colors

Outerwear that has a half or full zipped, buttoned, or snapped front (e.g. a cardigan, a

hoodie, a fleece jacket, a half-zip pullover, etc.) is not required to bear the Ben Lippen

logo or promote a BL team or organization. Such outerwear should also not promote any

non-BLS team or organization. However, company logos (e.g. The North Face) no larger

than pocket size are allowed.

All outerwear that does not have a half or full zipped, buttoned, or snapped front (e.g. a

sweatshirt) must have the Lands’ End Ben Lippen School logo, or originate from a

sanctioned Ben Lippen venue and promote a Ben Lippen team or organization.

Accessories

Decorative scarves may be worn if the colors are within the Ben Lippen color palette.

Acceptable colors are limited to dark green, yellow, navy blue, gray, black and white. Neon

colors are not permitted. Decorative belts, tights and leggings may be worn if they are a solid

color. Knee socks may be solid colored or have an argyle pattern. All colors are to be from

within the Ben Lippen color palette and are limited to those noted above for scarves. Hats are

not to be worn in the school building.

Spirit Wear Fridays

On Fridays students may wear properly fitted, modest jeans without holes, frays, rips, etc. along

with a BLS t-shirt originating from a sanctioned Ben Lippen venue and clearly promoting Ben

Lippen or a Ben Lippen team/organization. Outerwear worn on Fridays must fall within the

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guidelines for outerwear as noted above. Any special “jeans” days given throughout the school

year must follow Spirit Wear Friday guidelines.

Casual Dress for All Students – After School Hours

The following guidelines should be observed while on campus after school hours (e.g. athletic

practice, athletic events, fine arts performances, and any school-sponsored event):

Properly fitted modest jeans

Modest athletic shorts may be worn while participating in practice or in a game.

T-shirts, not undershirts, may be worn. Modest sleeveless shirts are acceptable.

Boys may practice on the athletic field without a shirt at a coach’s discretion. Shirts are

required under all other circumstances on campus, including after athletic practice.

Clothing which advertises tobacco, alcoholic beverages, the drug culture, lifestyles or

sentiments associated with social or spiritual rebellion, the occult, ungodly music groups,

or which has slogans with ungodly or double meanings is never acceptable.

Only modest, one-piece swimsuits are allowed for female students at appropriate school

trips, events or activities.

Modest clothing is expected at all Ben Lippen events. Extremely short shorts or skirts,

strapless tops or tops with only skinny straps, etc. do not generally conform to this

expectation.

Formal Dress for Young Ladies

Modest formal or evening dresses may be worn to special events. Strapless and asymmetrical

dresses are permitted, but all dresses should meet the following guidelines:

Formal dresses must be no shorter than to the knee.

No cleavage is to be seen.

Dresses should not be too low, too tight, too loose, too transparent, etc.

Dresses may only have cut-outs (open or covered with transparent material) on the back

of the dress above the bra-strap. Fully open-back dresses, cut-outs below the back bra-

strap, and cut-outs in the side or front of the dress are not allowed.

Girls wearing dresses that do not conform to the guidelines above may be asked to change

before being allowed to participate in the occasion. In order to avoid this, dress approvals are

required for formal Ben Lippen social events.

Candlelight Service Attire for Girls (Seniors only)

Dresses must be semi-formal and at least to the knee.

No cleavage is to be seen.

Dresses should not be too low, too tight, too loose, too transparent, etc.

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Dresses may only have cut-outs (open or covered with transparent material) on the

back of the dress above the bra-strap. Fully open-back dresses, cut-outs below the

back bra-strap, and cut-outs in the side or front of the dress are not allowed.

Dresses must be black, white or cream.

Shoes must be a neutral tone such as black, white, gold, silver, or nude; flip flops or

colored shoes are not permitted.

Graduation Attire for Girls (Seniors only)

Dresses should be to the knee (no floor length).

Shoes must be a neutral tone such as black, white, gold, silver, or nude; flip flops or

colored shoes are not permitted.

Formal Dress for Young Men

For formal events, boys should wear a jacket and tie with dress pants and dress shoes (no

athletic shoes, Rainbows, or Sperries allowed) or a tuxedo. A dark suit or tuxedo is required for

the Junior-Senior event.

Candlelight Service Attire for Boys (Seniors only)

Students must wear a dark suit with a white dress shirt and a dark tie or bowtie.

Dark dress shoes are required (no athletic shoes, Rainbows, or Sperries allowed).

Graduation Attire for Boys (Seniors only)

Students must wear dark dress pants (no khakis) with a white dress shirt and a dark

tie or bowtie.

Dark dress shoes are required (no athletic shoes, Rainbows, or Sperries allowed).

Hair Standard

All students are to keep their hair neat and well-groomed. Extreme hairstyles and unnatural hair

color (blue, green, etc.) are not acceptable. Some examples would be hair with shaved portions

or spikes. Boy’s hair may not cover either or both eyes or completely cover the ears. Boy’s hair

may be kept pulled back to accomplish this purpose, but while at school all hair should be above

the collar completely. Boys are allowed to have facial hair, but it must be well groomed.

Piercings and Body Art

Boys are not permitted to have visible piercings or gauges (gages). Wearing a bandage to cover

ear ornamentation is also not allowed. Girls are only allowed to have pierced ears visible. No

gauges (gages) are permitted. Visible tattoos or body art are not allowed.

Campus Wear Disciplinary Procedure

If a student comes to school wearing clothes that do not meet the campus wear standards

described below, he/she will be required to leave class and will not be permitted to return until

he/she is wearing proper campus wear. If necessary, the student will be required to call home

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and wait in the office until proper campus wear can be brought to school for him/her. Absences

or tardies for each class or partial class missed will accrue for students who must leave class

due to campus wear violations.

1st Offense: The student will be sent to the Dean on duty and may not return to class

until in appropriate campus wear. The student will receive a tardy and/or

absence(s) depending on how much class time is missed.

2nd Offense: In addition to the natural consequences outlined above for the first

offense, the student may be disallowed from wearing certain items of

clothing for the remainder of the semester, even if those items are

normally approved campus wear. For example, a student may be

disallowed from wearing a skirt for the remainder of the semester for a

second skirt violation, or a student may be disallowed from wearing a Ben

Lippen hoodie for a second violation of wearing a hoodie with no campus

wear beneath it.

3rd Offense: Consequences from step 3 in “Disciplinary Procedures” will be

considered.

4th Offense: A fourth offense will be considered a major disciplinary offense as

described in “Disciplinary Procedures.”

Lunch

Lunch is provided for all students on full school days when school is in session. Day students

may eat weekday breakfast by notifying the cafeteria staff in advance and paying the posted

price. Food - including ice cream and fruit - must be eaten in the cafeteria or in the designated

picnic areas in the breezeway and the LGI courtyard area. After lunch, students are expected to

use the restrooms located in the gym area rather than re-entering the classroom building.

Students should not be in the cafeteria during mealtimes unless it is their assigned period to eat.

Orderliness and good manners are essential to maintaining a pleasant eating environment.

Breaking in line, running, and loud behavior are not acceptable. Students are expected to

demonstrate good stewardship and a grateful attitude by not wasting or complaining about the

food that is provided for them.

Senior Off-Campus Lunch

Seniors with parental permission on file in the Ben Lippen office may leave campus on Mondays

for lunch. Seniors leaving campus for lunch must sign-out and sign-in upon return at the front

office. Students may not bring food or drink into the classroom. Those who fail to sign out, fail to

sign in, or return late for the class following lunch more than once will have the privilege of

leaving campus for lunch rescinded. A senior may not ride to lunch with another student unless

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parental permission is granted and is on record with the school. Additionally, a boarding student

may not ride with other students unless the driver has the required background check on file.

Underclassmen are not permitted to leave Ben Lippen campus for lunch.

Domestics

Students may be assigned a “domestic,” which is an assigned responsibility assisting in the

functioning and maintaining of the school. Domestic responsibilities may include serving and

cleaning-up after lunch in the cafeteria. Students must arrange for their own substitute when

they are unable to do their assignment. Domestic responsibilities are communicated in various

means; it is the student’s responsibility to fulfill their domestics.

Care of Property

All students, faculty, and staff are stewards of the property of BLS and are responsible for its

care. Willful damage to school property or to the property of another student will result in

disciplinary action, and the cost of repairing the damage due to willful acts will be charged to the

student(s) at fault.

Food and drink should only be taken into approved and designated areas. Food or drink from

the cafeteria should not be taken into the classroom buildings or the gym, but should be

confined to the designated areas in the cafeteria, breezeway, and outside the LGI. All dishes,

trays, cups and silverware should be returned to the cafeteria after lunch. Failure to do so may

result in the privilege of eating in the designated outside areas being revoked.

Lockers

Every student is issued a classroom building locker and combination lock. Students taking P.E.

or participating in a sport may also get a locker and a lock in the gymnasium locker room area. If

a lock is misplaced, another one can be issued for $5. Only BLS-issued locks may be used on

the lockers. All locks are to be returned at the end of the school year or purchased from the

school for $5.

Locker and Book Bag Decoration

Anything decorating a locker should not damage the locker or paint surface when it is removed.

Lockers and book bags may not include any advertisement or promotion of tobacco, alcohol,

illegal substances, non-Christian musical groups, crude images, slogans, or symbols with

ungodly or double meanings.

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Library

BLS encourages students to check out books for pleasure and coursework. Checking out

library materials properly and promptly makes it possible for everyone to benefit from the

library’s resources. The library does not charge overdue fines. If a student has an overdue

book, however, he or she will not be able to check out another until that book is returned or

paid for if lost. Additionally, the librarian will not sign the end of the year check-out sheets if

a student has outstanding materials.

While in the library, students should keep their voices to a level that will enable others to

read, do research or take a test. It is important that students respect others as they are

studying or taking tests.

Safety Considerations

Students may only use skateboards, rollerblades, scooters, and bicycles with proper safety

equipment, written parental permission, and administrative permission. Properly fitted and

secured safety helmets must be worn when riding, and students must have their own equipment

to participate.

Security

Concealed weapons are not permitted on any of the Ben Lippen campuses unless carried by a

professional law enforcement or CIU security officer. The phone number for BLS security is

(803) 513-3968.

Health Requirements and Services

It is mandatory that the school receive a copy of the South Carolina Department of Health and

Environmental Control Certificate of Immunization for each new student on or before the first

day of school. This form is available at a physician’s office or can be obtained from the Health

Department if other proof of immunization is provided.

Students participating in athletics must receive an annual physical on or after April 1 prior to the

start of school. The physical must be recorded on the “Athlete Physical Form” found on the Ben

Lippen website under the “Athletics” tab on the main menu.

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All students must be covered by health/accident insurance to attend BLS. Families will be asked

to submit their insurance company name and policy number or given the option of purchasing

insurance through the school.

Medication

Students may not have medication in their possession at school except their own Epi-Pen,

insulin, or rescue inhaler, unless approved by the school nurse. All other medication(s) must be

dispensed by the school nurse or her designee.

All medication dispensed at school must be in the original container. Prescription medication

must be in a current, completely labeled (date, pharmacy, physician, student, medication, full

dosing instructions) prescription container. Over-the-counter medication must be in clearly

labeled original packaging.

A prescription medication authorization form must be filled out by both the parent and the

physician when the physician has ordered a medication (prescription or over-the-counter) that

will require in-school administration for an indefinite period of time. However, a prescription

medication authorization form is not needed if a medication is to be given for a limited number of

days (up to two weeks), as long as the medication is brought to the nurse’s office in an

approved container (see above) and accompanied by a parent note indicating the purpose of

the medication and the time(s) it should be given to the student.

Services

The health services office is open to all Monticello Road day and boarding students during

school hours. Please note that the RenWeb Student Medical form must be completed before

medication will be dispensed to a student.

Vehicles and Road Safety

Permission to drive a vehicle or to have a vehicle at BLS is a privilege. As such, vehicles should

be handled with responsibility because the privilege may be withdrawn if regulations are

violated. These regulations include the following:

Students who wish to drive to school must register with the office any vehicles they plan to

drive. Decals must be placed on the left rear bumper or the left lower corner of the rear

window.

Student-driven vehicles lacking decals will be ticketed.

Students must park in their designated areas or in the BLS overflow lot.

Student drivers may not:

o Take another student off campus without written parental permission.

o Leave the campus during the school day without written parental permission.

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o Lend their vehicles to other students.

o Drive their vehicles on campus during the week to go to such places as the

chapel, the athletic field, or meals.

o Go to the parking area or sit in their cars during the day.

o Allow students to ride in a potentially dangerous manner (e.g. riding on the hood

of any vehicle, riding in the back of a truck, or hanging out of a vehicle).

Students must abide by the following guidelines when on the Columbia International

University (CIU) campus:

o The campus speed limit is 15 mph.

o Faculty/Staff/Visitor spaces are not to be used during the hours of 7:30 a.m. to

5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday.

o Spaces marked Reserved may not be used at any time.

o Vehicles may not be operated or parked on the grass.

o Curb parking is not permitted.

School authorities or campus security officers have the right to check cars at any time.

Drivers are responsible for the actions of their passengers.

Parking regulations are enforced seven days a week.

Students wishing to appeal a ticket must speak with the administration within 24 hours or pay

the fine.

Parking

All high school students are required to have a parking decal on their vehicle(s). Parking decals

are available from the high school receptionist and must be displayed on the driver’s side back

bumper or back window.

The lower parking area in front of the high school is designated for seniors and staff/visitors

only. No underclassmen may park in this area during school hours. Underclassmen may only

park at the entrance to the football/baseball complex and the area adjacent to the baseball field.

Parking on the grass hill is not permitted. Parking at CIU or behind the middle school is strictly

forbidden for BLS students.

CIU Campus

It is a privilege to have access to the facilities on the CIU campus. In order not to be disruptive

to the activities of the university, the following guidelines are required:

Students are not permitted to be on the campus or to use the facilities (including the

vending machines) of CIU without BLS faculty supervision.

Students must have a specific, approved purpose for being on the CIU campus. Students

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must receive written permission from the principal and sign out at the office to go on the

college and seminary campus after school.

Graduation Requirements/Awards

Class of 2015 Graduation Requirements/Awards

The following is a list of minimum course work required to receive a college-preparatory diploma of graduation from BLS. A minimum of 26 credits is required.

Department Credits

Bible 4 *

English 4 **

Mathematics 4 **

Lab Science 3

Social Science 4

Electives 1.5

Foreign Language 2 ***

P.E./Health 1 ****

Technology 1

Fine Arts 1

Junior Seminar 0.5

Community Service 30 *****

Total: 26 Credits

* Students who transfer to BLS need only take enough Bible credits to equal the number of

years enrolled at BLS but still must earn 26 credits total.

** Regardless of the number of high school English or math credits earned prior to the ninth

grade, all students are required to complete both an English and a math course each

semester they are enrolled.

*** Three foreign language credits in the same language are strongly recommended.

**** One half credit is given for participation in three seasons of the same JV or varsity

sport. One full credit is given for participation in four or more seasons of two or more

JV or varsity sports. The maximum number of credits earned through participation in

JV or varsity sports is one full credit. Either the half or full credit earned in this way

fulfills the physical education graduation requirement but does not fulfill the health

graduation requirement.

***** Senior Community Service Hours are required for graduation and must be completed

before May 1. Students may begin satisfying these hours during the summer before

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their senior year. Participation in certain official functions such as the Cedar Creek

Classic, as well as Winterim missions trips during both the Junior and Senior year,

also may count toward the Senior Community Service Hours requirement. Students

are responsible for recording their Senior Community Service Hours in Naviance.

Graduation Honors for the Class of 2015

Any student with a GPA of 4.5 based on the South Carolina Uniform Grading Policy in both

the junior and senior year will graduate summa cum laude (with honors). This is the highest

academic honor for a graduating senior. Students who maintain at least a 4.5 GPA on the

South Carolina Uniform Grading Policy during the senior year only will receive the

Headmaster’s Award.

Graduation Requirements/Awards for Class of 2016 and Beyond

The following is a list of minimum course work required to receive a diploma of graduation from

BLS. A minimum of 26 credits is required for a college preparatory diploma, and a minimum of

28 credits is required for a college preparatory diploma with honors distinction. All Ben Lippen

students must additionally complete the Calling Prep Assignments through the guidance office.

College Preparatory

Diploma Credit

Requirements

College Preparatory

Diploma with Honors

Distinction Credit

Requirements*

Bible** 4** 4**

English*** 4 4 or 5

Mathematics*** 4 4 or 5

Lab Science 3 4

Social Science 4 4

Foreign Language 2 3

Fine Arts 1 1 or 2

Technology 1 1 or 2

Physical Education**** 0.5 0.5

Health 0.5 0.5

Electives 2 0

Minimum Total Credits 26 28

Community Service***** 30 hours 30 hours

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* In addition to the specific credit requirements in the chart above, a student must meet the

following requirements to earn Honors Distinction:

1. A student must have earned at least a 4.250 cumulative UGS GPA.

2. A student must have passed a minimum of 12 credits classified as honors (H),

Advanced Placement (AP), or dual credit (DC).

3. A student must have earned a minimum of 9 total credits in English and Mathematics

with at least 4 credits in each discipline, and a minimum of 3 total credits in Fine Arts

and Technology with at least 1 credit in each discipline.

** 0.5 credits of Bible must be earned for each semester a student is enrolled at Ben Lippen.

Regardless of how many Bible credits a student is required to earn, the minimum total

credits does not change. Additional credits needed to meet minimum total credit

requirements may be from any academic category listed.

*** Regardless of the number of high school English or math credits earned prior to the ninth

grade, all students are required to enroll in both an English and a math course each

semester they are enrolled at Ben Lippen.

**** One half credit is given for participation in three seasons of the same JV or Varsity sport.

One full credit is given for participation in four or more seasons of two or more JV or

Varsity sports. The maximum number of credits earned through participation in JV or

Varsity sports is one full credit. Either the half or full credit earned in this way fulfills the

physical education graduation requirement but does not fulfill the health graduation

requirement.

***** Senior Community Service Hours are required for graduation and must be completed

before May 1. Students may begin satisfying these hours during the summer before their

senior year. Participation in certain official functions such as the Cedar Creek Classic, as

well as Winterim missions trips during both the Junior and Senior year, also may count

toward the Senior Community Service Hours requirement. Students are responsible for

recording their Senior Community Service Hours in Naviance.

Graduation Honors for the Class of 2016 and Beyond

Magna cum laude and summa cum laude - Students earning a cumulative UGP GPA of at

least 4.500 but less than 4.850 will be honored as magna cum laude graduates. Students

earning a cumulative UGP GPA at or above 4.850 will be honored as summa cum laude

graduates. All graduates, regardless of the amount of time they have spent at Ben Lippen,

are eligible for these awards.

Valedictorian and Salutatorian - The valedictorian and salutatorian will be selected from

among the students earning Honors Distinction who have also been full time students at

Ben Lippen for at least four high school semesters. The valedictorian will be the student(s)

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With the highest UGP GPA, and the salutatorian will be the student(s) with the second

highest UGP GPA. Ben Lippen calculates GPA to the thousandths place, so more than

one valedictorian and/or salutatorian may be honored in the case of a tie at the

thousandths (0.001) place. The valedictorian and salutatorian do not necessarily speak at

the Ben Lippen graduation ceremony. Instead, each senior class elects a representative to

speak at graduation.

National Honor Society

While not solely an academic award, NHS members are honored at graduation. Membership in

and selection for the National Honor Society is based on scholarship, service, leadership, and

character.

Senior Community Service Hours

All seniors must complete 30 Senior Community Service Hours prior to May 1. Senior

Community Service Hours can be completed in the summer following the junior year or during

the senior year. Thirty community service hours during the senior year or summer following the

junior year are a mandatory graduation requirement for all seniors.

The intent of community service hours are to reach out to the community beyond a student’s

individual family, investing in the lives of others in a student’s larger community, school, church,

and/or society. Students are encouraged to serve broadly and creatively in a number of different

venues to use and develop their gifts, talents, and a passion and heart for service.

Participation as a volunteer in a Ben Lippen Fundraising event that wholly benefits financial aid

during the Junior or Senior year qualifies for community service hours. Participation in a

Winterim missions trip during the Junior or Senior year qualifies for Senior Community Service

Hours.

Please note that National Honor Society service hours cannot also count for the required 30

Senior Community Service Hours. Additionally, any service hours required for athletes cannot

also count for the 30 required Senior Community Service Hours.

Students are to log their Senior Community Service Hours in Naviance as they complete them

rather than wait to log them when they are all completed.

Course Load

All full-time freshmen, sophomores, and juniors are required to take a minimum load of seven

classes each semester. Seniors are encouraged to take a minimum load of seven classes each

semester, but a minimum of six classes is required for seniors both semesters.

Drop/Add Period

The drop/add period during which schedule changes are allowed is the first two weeks of each

course. Students may not add a core course after the first two weeks of the course. If a student

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drops a course after the drop/add period, a grade of “Withdrawn F” or WF will be given. A WF is

included in a student’s GPA as a 61. Adding and/or dropping courses require the signature of

parents, teachers, and the guidance department on the paper drop/add form which can be

obtained in the guidance office. Student schedule rearrangements that do not require dropping

or adding a course may be requested by the student without a paper drop/add form by using the

online form provided by the guidance office.

For a variety of reasons, sometimes students choose to drop a yearlong AP class from their

schedule at the end of the first semester. When this occurs, the first semester of the AP class is

re-classified as Honors on the student’s transcript, and the student’s GPA is re-calculated

counting the class as Honors instead of AP. Students remaining in an AP class after the

drop/add period for the second semester will be charged the AP exam fee and will be expected

to take the AP exam.

Courses Outside BLS

All courses taken outside of BLS for credit must be approved by administration prior to

enrollment (including summer school). A student may not take more than two courses for

remediation inside or outside of BLS during his or her high school career.

Report Cards and Credit

Report cards are issued quarterly, but students earn one half credit each semester in each

course in which they earn a passing grade. The minimum passing grade credited toward

graduation is 70%. The semester grade that is reported on the official student transcript is

cumulative and calculated as 40% of the first quarter average, 40% of the second quarter

average, and 20% of the semester examination or culminating project/performance.

The guidance department will work with families to determine the best way to make up any

credit deficiency. [See “Credit Redemption Policy” for first semester failures of yearlong

courses.]

Students may be disallowed from returning to Ben Lippen if they are not on track to meet all

graduation requirements.

Transcript Requests

Transcript request forms can be obtained from the guidance office and must be fully completed

before any official transcript is released. A $25 fee per transcript is charged; however, the fee

for the first ten transcripts is waived for current seniors. All transcripts mailed internationally

incur an additional $45 fee per transcript.

Grade Level Placement

For classification in the 10th grade, a student must earn a minimum of six credits including one

English and one Math credit. 11th grade status requires a minimum of thirteen credits including

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two English, two Math, one Lab Science and one Social Science. 12th grade status requires a

minimum of nineteen credits including three English, three Math, two Lab Science, two Social

Science, one Foreign Language (Junior Seminar is also required for returning students in the

class of 2015). Students who are English language learners have additional requirements

explained below.

Grade Level Placement for English Language Learners

In order to track student achievement and help the Ben Lippen guidance office with college and

university placements, all international students are required to officially submit their TOEFL

scores to Ben Lippen School (TOEFL School Code #3307) each time the TOEFL exam is taken.

Furthermore, in an effort to realistically inform Ben Lippen international students of their

progress toward college readiness related to English proficiency, Ben Lippen has adopted the

specific standards outlined below for grade level determination. The reasoning behind these

standards is simple: colleges and universities that consider the TOEFL in their admissions

process will generally only consider admitting international applicants with TOEFL scores at or

above 79. Students may appeal for an exception to the standards given below through the

guidance office.

Before a student can register for classes classified as a grade level listed below the student

must (1) provide evidence that he or she has attained at least the minimum TOEFL score AND

(2) provide official transcripts from the student’s prior school(s) demonstrating coursework that

would allow a timely completion of Ben Lippen graduation requirements. Students may obtain

information on specific graduation requirements from the Ben Lippen guidance office and

elsewhere in this handbook.

Grade Level* Minimum TOEFL Score

Senior (12th grade) 70**

Junior (11th grade) 60

* Ben Lippen reserves the right to classify a student below the grade level indicated in the

above chart if a student’s credits toward graduation will not fulfill specific graduation

requirements before the student’s projected graduation date.

** A TOEFL iBT score of 80 is highly recommended before beginning senior level coursework.

English as a Second Language (ESL) Placement

For English Language Learners (ELL’s), placement in the Ben Lippen ESL program is

determined by TOEFL-iBT score*. All ELL’s are required to take the TOEFL-iBT at least once

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per year to document student progress in language development and ensure proper ESL

placement. ELL’s may advance in their ESL level** at the beginning of each semester by

providing a TOEFL-iBT score that demonstrates the levels listed in the chart below.

TOEFL-iBT

Reading TOEFL-iBT

Writing TOEFL-iBT Listening

TOEFL-iBT

Speaking

Typical Parallel

Mainstream English Course

Beginning 0-10 0-10 0-10 0-10 --

Intermediate 11-17 11-17 11-17 on both Fundamentals

Advanced 18+ on both 18+ on both Seminars

No ESL Support

Required***

Overall score of at least 80 (during one TOEFL-iBT test)

Seminars AND

20+ on all sections (at any combination of test administrations)

* If a TOEFL-iBT score is not available for a new student, the student must take the TOEFL-

iBT within one semester at Ben Lippen, and that TOEFL-iBT score will be used to validate

the student’s provisional placement OR re-place the student in the appropriate ESL level

the next semester.

** ELL’s who are not satisfied with their ESL class placements may appeal to the ESL

Department Chair. In such cases, the student’s English language progress will be

reviewed holistically, taking into account the student’s TOEFL-iBT scores, past grades in

ESL and non-ESL courses at Ben Lippen, the total number of credits the student has

earned at Ben Lippen, age, teacher recommendations, summer school course work,

motivation, work ethic, student goals, desire, and attitude. Additionally, students who are

placed in upper level ESL classes or mainstream classes but do not perform well may be

required to return to lower level ESL classes.

*** ELL’s may place out of either Advanced Reading & Writing OR Advanced Listening &

Speaking by achieving at least a 20 in the respective sections of the TOEFL-iBT, but

students must remain in at least one ESL class until they have achieved an overall score

of a 80 at one test administration and at least a 20 on each section (not necessarily at one

test administration).

Academic Assessment

BLS seeks to assess and evaluate student academic performance using multiple methods and

styles. While some uniformity is needed, teachers are encouraged to exercise professional

judgment in developing assessment standards in their courses. All assessment and evaluation

procedures are outlined in the syllabus published at the beginning of the course.

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Academic Grading Scale

Ben Lippen School uses the South Carolina Uniform Grading Policy (UGP). The UGP

designates the quality point range for each numeric grade and gives weighted credit. Numerical

grades for letter grades and weightings for college preparatory, Honors, and AP courses are

provided in the following chart:

Average

Grade

College

Prep

Honors

Advanced

Placement

100 A 4.875 5.375 5.875

99 A 4.750 5.250 5.750

98 A 4.625 5.125 5.625

97 A 4.500 5.000 5.500

96 A 4.375 4.875 5.375

95 A 4.250 4.750 5.250

94 A 4.125 4.625 5.125

93 A 4.000 4.500 5.000

92 B 3.875 4.375 4.875

91 B 3.750 4.250 4.750

90 B 3.625 4.125 4.625

89 B 3.500 4.000 4.500

88 B 3.375 3.875 4.375

87 B 3.250 3.750 4.250

86 B 3.125 3.625 4.125

85 B 3.000 3.500 4.000

84 C 2.875 3.375 3.875

83 C 2.750 3.250 3.750

82 C 2.625 3.125 3.625

81 C 2.500 3.000 3.500

Average

Grade

College

Prep

Honors

Advanced

Placement

80 C 2.375 2.875 3.375

79 C 2.250 2.750 3.250

78 C 2.125 2.625 3.125

77 C 2.000 2.500 3.000

76 D 1.875 2.375 2.875

75 D 1.750 2.250 2.750

74 D 1.625 2.125 2.625

73 D 1.500 2.000 2.500

72 D 1.375 1.875 2.375

71 D 1.250 1.750 2.250

70 D 1.125 1.625 2.125

69 F 1.000 1.500 2.000

68 F 0.875 1.375 1.875

67 F 0.750 1.250 1.750

66 F 0.625 1.125 1.625

65 F 0.500 1.000 1.500

64 F 0.375 0.875 1.375

63 F 0.250 0.750 1.250

62 F 0.125 0.625 1.125

0-61 F 0.000 0.000 0.000

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Grade Point Average

The guidance office computes each student’s grade point average (GPA) at the end of each

semester. Each student transcript includes two GPA calculations: the South Carolina Uniform

Grading Policy GPA (UGP GPA) and an unweighted GPA (UGPA) on an absolute 4.000 scale.

Credit Redemption Policy

Students who earn a failing grade of 65-69% during the first semester of a yearlong course may

“redeem” that half credit by earning a grade of 77% or higher during the second semester of the

same course with the same teacher. The failing grade will be replaced with a 70% in this

circumstance.

Honor Roll

Each quarter an Honor Roll list will be compiled for the high school consisting of all students

who have achieved an A (93% or greater) in all their courses. Additionally, each semester a

Principal’s List will be compiled honoring all students achieving a 4.25 GPA or greater for that

semester.

Class Rank

Class rank is computed at the completion of a student’s sophomore and junior years prior to

June 15, then revised after the first semester of the senior year, and finally calculated at the end

of the senior year prior to June 15. Class rank information includes all students who attended

BLS that school year. Only diploma candidates are included in the class rankings. Class rank is

based on the cumulative GPA (South Carolina Uniform Grading Policy) of all high school

courses. Summer school coursework and new students transferring to BLS are not included in

the prior year’s GPA calculation or class rankings, respectively.

Athletic and Co-Curricular Eligibility

Academic Eligibility: Athletes must pass (70% average or better) six courses each

quarter AND maintain a 2.0 quarter GPA to participate in athletics and/or co-curricular

activities the following quarter. At the end of the first and second semester, the semester

GPA and semester grades may be used instead of the quarter GPA and grades.

o Athletes who have a 2.0 GPA but have a failing grade in individual subjects will

be considered on a case-by-case basis by the athletic director and the principal.

Any courses taken during the summer must be approved by the administration. A

maximum of two summer school courses may be used for athletic eligibility purposes

during a student’s high school career.

Athletes who are ineligible at the completion of a quarter will be suspended from all

games (including pep rallies for cheerleaders). Athletes who are ineligible at the

beginning of a quarter are placed on suspension and re-evaluated five weeks from the

first day of the quarter. If the athlete’s GPA is above a 2.0 and he/she is passing six

courses after five weeks, the athlete is deemed eligible at that time.

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In order to be eligible for athletics or co-curriculars at BLS as a part-time student, a

student must enroll and pass four (4) core classes or five (5) of any classes offered.

Core classes are English, math, science, social science, technology (1), fine arts (1),

and foreign language.

Academic Probation

Academic probation is designed to assist students in becoming more responsible for their

academic progress. Academic probation also promotes important communication among

students, parents, and the school. Academic probation may be invoked throughout the school

year and/or as a condition of admittance to the school. Students will be placed on academic

probation if they fail two or more courses in one quarter OR if their quarter GPA falls below 2.0.

Students on academic probation meet with a guidance counselor weekly for accountability and

encouragement purposes. If deemed necessary, a tutor will be suggested to assist in deficient

subject areas. Students remaining on academic probation for two consecutive quarters who do

not raise their GPA above 2.0 by the end of the second quarter may be asked to withdraw from

BLS.

Students with a diagnosed learning difference or difficulty who have a GPA below 2.0 are

placed on academic review. Provided these students are working up to their expected ability

level and are not exhibiting behavioral problems, they may remain on academic review

indefinitely.

Standardized Testing

The PLAN test, a predictor for the ACT test, is required of all freshmen and given during the fall

semester. All sophomores and juniors take the Preliminary Scholastic Aptitude Test (PSAT),

also during the fall semester. There are no makeups for the PSAT. These tests are

administered at BLS.

The SAT and ACT are administered to high school students throughout the school year

according to the schedule provided by the College Board and ACT, respectively. Students are

responsible for registering online and paying the registration fee before the deadline.

Sophomores are strongly urged to take the SAT near the end of the academic year. Juniors

must, at a minimum, take the SAT and ACT at least once during their junior year. The BLS

school code for reporting scores is 410501. Scores must be reported to the guidance office for

college guidance purposes.

All international students must take the TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) each

year. Ben Lippen’s TOEFL School Code is 3307. Scores must be reported to the guidance

office for ESL course advancement, class placement, and college guidance purposes.

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Guidance Services

Guidance services seeks to assist students and their parents in discovering the unique calling

God has placed on each student. See the Ben Lippen website for additional information.

Ben Lippen Accommodation Plan (BLAP)

Guidelines for students wishing to utilize academic accommodations at BL:

The student must submit a report of current (within the past three years)

psychoeducational evaluation to the guidance office.

If the report supports the requested accommodation, personnel in the guidance office

will create a BLAP and provide two copies of the plan for signatures. (From the date the

request and the supporting documentation are submitted, the Office has two weeks to

complete the accommodation plan.) If a report does not support the requested

accommodation, the parent will be contacted.

Upon receipt of the BLAP, the student and teacher(s) will sign the plan. This plan will be

reviewed each year. [If the student desires accommodations for the following school

year, he/she must request the revised plan from the guidance office during the first two

weeks of school.]

The student will then return the two copies of the signed plan to the guidance office. One

copy will be placed in the student’s file and the other copy will be returned for the

student’s personal record. The Guidance Office will make two copies of the Plan for

each of the student’s current teacher(s). The student will take these copies to each of

their teachers.

When the student presents the official accommodation plan to each teacher, the teacher

will discuss the procedures to follow in that class to take advantage of the stated

accommodations.

After meeting with each student, the teacher will return one signed copy to the

guidance/principal’s office and keep one copy for their own personal reference.

High School students have the responsibility, when needed, of reminding the teacher

that he/she may need extra time, an alternative testing environment, oral testing, and/or

additional accommodations.

The normal procedure on test/quizzes that are given during a regular class period is as

follows.

o Students may receive 50%-100% more time than is allowed under un-timed

conditions depending on their accommodation plan.

o These tests must be completed by the end of the day the test was given.

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o On semester exams, students may have 50%-100% more time than is regularly

allowed unless an exception is made based on the student’s accommodation

plan.

The guidance office will provide an accommodation plan for each year the psycho-

educational evaluation remains current (within three years of the original testing date). In

the event of new testing, a copy of the testing report should be submitted to the

guidance office, and a new BLAP will be created based on the new results.

When a student transitions from the BL middle school to the BL high school, information

regarding their accommodation plan will be sent to the next division. Parents should

schedule an appointment with the guidance office before the school year begins to

establish and to ensure appropriate accommodations in the high school.

Guidelines for students wishing to utilize academic accommodations on standardized testing:

PLAN, PSAT, SAT, ACT, and/or AP Exams.

Students who wish to apply for accommodations with the College Board/ACT must have

received the same accommodations at Ben Lippen School for at least one semester

prior to the testing.

Students must contact the High School Guidance Office to obtain a “Request for

Accommodations on Standardized Tests Form.” The application must be completed and

sent to the guidance office for processing with the College Board/ACT for their review

and determination of granting accommodations for PSAT, SAT, ACT and AP exams.

The processes must be completed and submitted to the High School Guidance Office at

least eight (8) weeks prior to taking the first of these exams.

After the student has been approved for non-standard testing accommodations by the

College Board for the SAT, students may then register online for each test. In order to

make arrangements for the administration of the SAT, the high school guidance

department must be notified of the registration and the approved accommodations that

have been requested each time a student registers for a non-standard SAT test.

Psycho-educational evaluations must be kept current (within the past three years) to

retain College Board SAT accommodations.

Applications for Extended Time Testing and Special Testing for the ACT can be

downloaded at act.org. Once the parent has completed their section of the application, it

should be sent to the High School Guidance Office for processing. This form must be

completed and mailed at least eight (8) weeks prior to taking the ACT exam. Payment

must accompany the application. A test date will be set by the High School Guidance

Office. (Please note: The ACT non-standard test is not always given on the national test

date). ACT requires that the psycho-educational evaluation be current within three (3)

years of the original test date.

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Ben Lippen School can reasonably offer students the following accommodations:

The use of laptop computers/iPads in the classroom.

With permission from the teacher, the use of recording devices in the classroom.

Assistance with note taking.

Extended time to complete tests and classroom assignments.

Electronic aid for spelling, such as Spellcheck.

Oral reading of directions and test questions.

Preferential seating in the classroom.

Typing of responses when feasible.

Conferences and Addressing Problems

Parents are encouraged to communicate directly with their child’s teachers, and email or phone

is often an efficient way to do this. Parents who would like to arrange a conference with a

teacher should make arrangements in advance. During school hours, teachers need their full

attention directed toward their students. Please do not drop by class during school hours to talk

with your child’s teacher(s).

When questions or problems arise, in keeping with the principle outlined in Matthew 18, please

make arrangements to speak first with the teacher or responsible party. Please refrain from

talking to other students, parents, or families about a problem; it can easily become divisive and

destructive. If a problem persists after speaking to the responsible party, please make an

appointment to speak with the principal, with the teacher or responsible party present.

Visitors and Guests

BLS permits visitors and guests on campus, but guidelines are necessary to promote safety and

order.

All guests must report to the main office as soon as they arrive on campus. Guests who

may have contact with students must provide a valid state issued ID in order to be

cleared by the “Raptor” system and receive a visitor’s pass.

Visitors must clearly display their visitor’s pass at all times.

Before inviting or allowing anyone to be a guest to classes or lunch, students must get

permission from the principal. Guests are expected to abide by the guidelines and

regulations of the school while on campus.

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Sometimes students will be asked to host a prospective student during the day or in the

resident houses overnight. Students are asked to help orient these guests and

accompany them through the daily routines of school life.

Volunteers

Volunteers must complete a volunteer application and interview as well as submit to a

background check before they can be approved to serve the school in any capacity. Volunteer

applications are available in the school office.

School Closing

In case of inclement weather or emergency, listen to radio station WMHK (89.7 FM) or to

television stations WLTX (channel 19), WIS (channel 10), or WOLO (channel 25) for information

regarding school closings.

School Records

Change of Information

Please contact the high school administrative assistant immediately upon any change in

address, phone number, church membership, or any serious change in family situations.

Student Records

The school maintains a complete record, including a cumulative academic record, for each

student. All materials in these files are treated as strictly confidential and are available only

according to the following guidelines:

Students who have withdrawn from BLS may have their cumulative records sent directly

to the new school upon the school’s request, provided their BLS tuition is paid in full.

Administrative permission will be needed for parents wishing to “hand carry” a stamped

sealed copy of their child’s cumulative record.

Withdrawal Procedures

Student withdrawals are to be initiated through the principal’s office and will be subject to the

terms outlined in the Ben Lippen School Education Agreement.

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Supplementary Education Program

Private supplementary services are available through Academic and Educational Services, Inc.

AES utilizes a therapy approach developed by National Institute for Learning Disabilities (NILD).

This program is not covered by BLS tuition.

Financial Policies and Procedures

Payment Plans

Day students: Tuition payments are drafted through FACTS. The payer must set up a FACTS

account and choose one of the following payment options:

1. Annual Tuition Payments: Full (100%) of tuition is drafted through FACTS in July. The

$500 per student continuing enrollment deposit for the following school year is drafted in

February.

2. Semester Tuition Payments: Sixty percent (60%) of tuition is drafted through FACTS in

July. The remaining forty percent (40%) is drafted in December. The $500 per student

continuing enrollment deposit for the following school year is drafted in February.

3. 10-Month Payment Plan: Monthly drafts through FACTS are made July through May.

Senior (12th grade) students’ tuition payments are drafted July through April. The $500

per student continuing enrollment deposit for the following school year is drafted in

February in lieu of the regular tuition payment. The payment plan fee for monthly payers

is $125 per family, applied annually.

4. 11-Month Payment Plan: Same as 10-month Payment Plan except drafts begin in June

and are spread over 11 months.

Boarding students: The payer will choose between annual or semester payment plan as

outlined above. The option to draft through FACTS is available only if funds are drawn from a

U.S. bank.

Tuition Deposits

Day Students: Upon acceptance, a $500 tuition deposit per new student is due in order to

secure the student’s enrollment.

Boarding Students: Upon acceptance, a $3,000 tuition deposit per new student is due in

order to secure the student’s enrollment.

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Continuing Enrollment Deposits (for Returning Families)

Day Students: A $500 per student continuing enrollment deposit for the following school year

is due by February 28. A late enrollment fee will be assessed for families re-enrolling after the

February 28 deadline as follows: March - $100; April - $200; May - August - $300.

Boarding Students: A $3,000 per student tuition deposit for each successive school year is

billed according to a family’s payment plan (see above). Deposits received after the February

re-enrollment period are subject to a late fee of 10% per month, and priority for placement is

not guaranteed.

Delinquent Accounts

Students with delinquent accounts will not be permitted to start classes.

Families who fall into arrears and fail to clear the FACTS draft must make full payment

plus any penalty fees assessed by the bank.

Student records such as grade reports and official transcripts will not be released unless

account is current.

Students whose accounts are more than 60 days past due are subject to suspension from

school-sponsored activities, sports participation, and academic classes.

Access to RenWeb will be denied should an account become past due.

Students with an outstanding balance from previous years may not re-activate or re-enroll

until the balance is paid in full.

Termination of Contract Fee

Day Students: The deadline for withdrawal notice for the 2014-15 school year is February

28, 2014. A withdrawal in March 2014 results in the loss of the $500 tuition deposit. Beginning

in April 2014, a withdrawal will result in the loss of the deposit and a termination of contract

fee will be assessed as follows: April 2014 - $2,000; May 2014 - $3,000; June to December

2014 - $4,000; January 2015 - $3,000; February 2015 - $2,000; March to May 2015 - $1,000.

Boarding Students: Upon withdrawal, 50% of the tuition costs for the remainder of the

school year will be assessed.

Financial Assistance

Families desiring to apply for financial assistance may do so as part of the application or re-

enrollment process. Applications are accepted online through FACTS. (An application fee is

assessed and payable to FACTS.) A link to FACTS is available on the Ben Lippen website.

Families are encouraged to apply by February 28 in order to have the greatest opportunity for

assistance.

Financial aid is offered on the basis of demonstrated financial need and is limited. The

following are the conditions for financial aid:

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No family will be awarded financial assistance or need-based scholarships without

applying through FACTS.

Should a student withdraw, the unused pro-rated portion of the financial

aid/scholarship will be returned to the school and may be awarded to another family.

Families may not receive financial assistance over and above the amount for which

they have qualified.

Only the parent(s) or legal guardian may apply for aid.

Financial aid may not be applied to accounts that are in arrears.

Late Fees

A $25 late fee will be assessed on tuition payments more than 30 days past due.

Returned Checks (NSF)

A $30 service charge will be assessed or all returned checks and returned FACTS withdrawals.

After two NSF, only cash, cashier’s check, or money orders will be accepted for all payments

through the remainder of the school year.

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High School Handbook Commitment Form

Parental Commitment

Please initial next to each statement indicating agreement, and sign where indicated.

As parent(s) or legal guardian(s) of a Ben Lippen School student, I (we):

__________ Commit to participate in the Christian education of our child by regular attendance at a local church and exemplify Christian life principles in our home.

__________ Have read, understand, and agree to support the Ben Lippen High School Student Life Handbook. I (we) commit to support BLS and BL policies.

__________ Have read, understand, and agree to support the principles contained in the Statement of Faith and Mission Statement of BLS (available online).

__________ Commit to communicate directly with BLS teachers and/or administrators in the event of conflict or disagreement before involving other parties.

__________ Approve establishing a Ben Lippen technology account, including email, for my student(s).

__________ Approve the publication of pictures of our son/daughter taken during the year.

__________________________________ ______________________________ __________

Father or Guardian Signature Father or Guardian Printed Name Date

__________________________________ ______________________________ __________

Mother or Guardian Signature Mother or Guardian Printed Name Date

Student Commitment

Please initial next to each statement if you agree, and sign where indicated.

As a student at Ben Lippen School, I:

__________ Commit to do my best in all my studies.

__________ Have read, understand, and commit to obey the biblical and community standards set forth in the Ben Lippen Student Life Handbook without complaint.

__________ Commit to maintain a high standard in accordance with the social life guidelines

and entertainment standards outlined in the Ben Lippen Student Life Handbook.

__________ Commit to appropriate technology usage in line with Ben Lippen’s technology

policies.

__________________________________ ______________________________ __________

Student’s Signature Student’s Printed Name Date

This Handbook Commitment form must be initialed, signed and returned to BLS before the end of the first week of classes. Please return this form to the high school office.